Public Safety Officer-K9 Unit

Hartford Healthcare•Hartford, CT

About The Position

The Public Safety Officer - K9 Unit serves as a frontline protector of the Hartford HealthCare community, working alongside a specially trained canine (K9) partner to ensure a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for all patients, visitors, and staff. This position goes beyond traditional security functions, incorporating community relations, escalation management, and scent detection of identified hazards. The handler is responsible for the proper care, deployment, and utilization of the assigned K9, both during daily operations and in response to emergencies or identified threats. Public Safety Officer - K9 handlers are essential members of our Public Safety team, working proactively to prevent incidents through visible presence and skilled intervention, while fostering a climate of trust and support throughout the healthcare environment.

Requirements

HS Diploma/GED required
3 years of relevant experience in law enforcement, public safety, corrections, or military
Valid driver’s license
Current Connecticut Guard Card or ability to obtain before completion of Field Training program (FTO) or within 90 days of hire
Completion of the FTO
Within 6 months of K9 assignment: successful certification through designated K9 training program. Geographic considerations may apply.
Demonstrated ability to work independently, remain calm under pressure, and resolve conflicts effectively
Maintains knowledgeable and stays current with the Public Safety Policy and Procedure Manual, K9 Policies and procedures, Emergency Operations Manual, department directives, memos and roll-call information sheet.
Successfully attends and completes all mandated Public Safety Training Programs and hospital-based educational programs.
Ability to work weekends and flexible hours/shifts.
Remains available for emergency call-in or other special duty.
Appropriate housing accommodations/home visit required.